Learning of English In Malaysia

Malaysia - A Conducive Environment

Introduction

The English language has been widely spoken and used in Malaysia for many
years, so much so that it has automatically become the second language of
the country. Nearly every household in the city in Malaysia uses English,
even if it is not the first language of the house. With the world becoming
smaller due to globalisation, the importance of the English language, which
has been dubbed the international trading language, is very much evident. In
this Internet and Information Age, in order to achieve international
stature, it is important to know the English language as English is the
lingua franca of the Internet.

For this matter, more and more students (local and international) are
equipping themselves with the English language by attending special English
courses and programmes in Malaysia. Therefore, it is not surprising to note
that this language is being offered by many of the higher educational
institutions, not only as a programme by itself but also as a preparatory
subject to gain entry into undergraduate programmes offered by the local
institutions as well as overseas institutions.

Why Choose Malaysia to Study an English Language Improvement Course?

The Major Language for Study in Schools, Universities and Communication
Malaysians have been influenced, especially during the British colonisation
period, to use English in their daily transactions. The English language is
being used extensively in Malaysia, in commercial or social settings, formal or
informal situations – in business transactions, internet communication,
advertisements and the entertainment industry. For some homes, it has become the
second language, used in everyday conversation among family members and friends.
Some Malaysian homes also use this language as their mother tongue.

Owing to its place of importance in the new knowledge economy, English, as a
second language, continues to be a compulsory subject taught at all levels in
every Malaysian school. On top of that, the subjects of mathematics and science
are being taught in English in schools at all levels.

At the tertiary level, although the medium of instruction at undergraduate level
in the public universities is the National language (Bahasa Melayu), with effect
from the year 2005, English is used to teach the science and mathematics-related
subjects. All private higher educational institutions use the English language
as the medium of instruction.

A Conducive EnvironmentIn a Multi-lingual Society like Malaysia, the advantage for international
students to learn English is that they will learn the necessary communications
skills to equip them for a successful life. The students will not only acquire
the relevant study skills required for college or university entrance, but will
also be equipped with knowledge essential in the working world. Whether it is
for personal satisfaction or social enrichment, or simply to excel in your
academic and work endeavours, you will find it advantageous to learn English in
the Malaysian multi-lingual environment.

Apart from the public schools, language centres found in all major cities and
towns in Malaysia offer English language courses that cater to the individual
needs of the people, whether on a personal or professional basis. As such, there
are classes which offer English for academic purposes to help students in their
academic programmes that are conducted in English, as well as English language
classes for specific purposes to help those who need English for career
enhancement or development. Such classes are not only popular among the
Malaysians but also among the foreigners (students and expatriates living in the
country) who may require the English language during their stay in Malaysia,
whether for personal or business reasons.

Therefore, with the English language as a natural second language of the country
as well as being spoken by many Malaysians in and outside of their homes,
International Students will find that Malaysia has an environment conducive for
the studying of English.

Trained Professional Instructors
English instructors in the private educational institutions, whether
expatriate or local, are highly-qualified and experienced. Students will be
taught by friendly, dedicated and mature professionals who are genuinely
concerned for the students' success in learning English.

Effective Teaching Methodology
The Language Centres in Malaysia use creative and dynamic learning
activities and the proven ‘Communicative Approach' to language learning for
their language programmes. Classes are lively and interactive where students can
engage in roleplay activities, problem-solving exercises and small group
discussions. Therefore, the students are able to apply their newly-learnt
grammatical structures, vocabulary and idiomatic expressions to meaningful, real
life situations.

Multimedia Technology
Some Language Centres in the institutions are also equipped with multimedia
laboratories that are installed with comprehensive Internet and Networking
system. These laboratories will provide a wide variety of interactive
computerassisted language learning software, videos and audio tapes. On top of
that, you will have supervised Internet access which will enable you to move
beyond the classroom and gain exposure to stimulating resources available on the
Internet.

Small Class Size
Students are assured of being able to study in anxiety-free, fully
air-conditioned rooms. English language classes are normally small and with
fewer students per class, individual attention is guaranteed. This would enable
students to progress at a rapid pace.

Competitive FeesThe tuition fees for English courses in Malaysia are very competitive. For
example, the preparatory courses for TOEFL and IELTS examinations usually take 2
to 6 months and the fees range from RM400 to RM800 per course depending on the
duration and course contents.

Where to Learn the English Language in Malaysia ?

There are special centres in Malaysia where the English language is
taught. These centres include:-

Specialist Language Centre e.g. the British Council (Malaysia), ELS English
Language Centre, The Language House, etc

Types of Common English Programmes for International Students

Malaysia has many specialist language centres and private higher educational
institutions that offer preparatory classes for the testing of English
proficiency conducted by the external English Examination Board, as an entry
requirement into college or university. Examples of such proficiency tests are
the IELTS (International English Language Testing System); the TOEFL (Test of
English as a Foreign Language); and the MUET (Malaysia University English Test).

TOEFL (Test Of English As A Foreign Language)
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the more popular
External English Examinations. A widelyrecognised English proficiency test,
it is accepted by all colleges and universities in the UK, the US, Australia
and Canada. The test score normally required by colleges and universities as
the minimum admission requirement is between 173 and 250 in the new computer
administered test (equivalent to a score of 500 to 600 in the old test
format). The test is conducted throughout the year at the Prometric Testing
Center.

Why take up preparatory courses for TOEFL? These preparatory courses will
prepare you to obtain good scores in your TOEFL Test as students will
develop general English skills and learn TOEFL test-taking strategies. The
course normally includes a comprehensive overview of the TOEFL
Computer-Based Test. Preparation is made for all the components which
include the Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing components

Some providers of preparatory courses are:

ELS Language Centres Malaysia

Swinburne University of Technology, Sarawak

Olympia College

KBU International College

Stamford College

Sunway University College

Taylor's University College

etc

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
The International English Language Testing System, otherwise known as IELTS,
is another internationally-accepted testing system for English language
proficiency. This testing system is recognised by the British and Australian
universities for admission of foreign students. It is also gaining
increasing acceptance from institutions in the United States as well. It
measures the ability to communicate in English across all four language
skills - listening, reading, writing and speaking.

The test score normally required by institutions of higher learning as the
minimum admission requirement is between 6.0 and 7.0. The test is available
at different times of the year and is conducted at approved IELTS test
centres.

Generally, the duration of IELTS preparatory course will take 6 to 8 weeks
and it focuses on a comprehensive overview of the IELTS test components.
Their experienced instructors will teach test-taking strategies to help
students obtain the high score they need for university entry.

Preparation for all components of the test: Reading Comprehension,
Listening Comprehension, Written Composition and Oral interview

Some providers of the preparatory course are:

ELS Language Centres Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur Infrastructure University College

Swinburne University of Technology, Sarawak

Olympia College

INTI International University College

KBU International College

KDU College

Stamford College

Sunway University College

Taylor's University College

SIT International College

Methodist College KL

Nilai International College

etc

Other Choices of English Language Improvement Courses
Developed by Some Malaysian Educational Institutions

Besides offering preparatory courses for internationally recognised English
Language Tests, private universities and colleges also conduct
internally-accepted English Proficiency course for students entering their
pre-university courses or Bachelor's Degree programmes. The institutions also
offer varied options of English programmes to meet the needs of different
students and the public who have different reasons for studying English. These
internally-developed programmes are designed to equip students with a higher
level of language skills and proficiency.

Below are some examples of internally-developed and accepted English programmes
offered by established higher educational institutions.

ELS Language Centres MalaysiaCertified Intensive English Programme (CIEP)
This is a fast track programme that is academically rigorous and demanding.
It prepares students to cope with college and university studies. The ELS
CIEP certificate is accepted by many universities and colleges in place of
TOEFL / IELTS for entry requirements. This full-time course consists of 6
lessons per day and is structured to accelerate learning with maximum time
spent in the classroom. It enables students to reach their academic and
career goals in the shortest time possible.

Certified Intensive English Programme (CIEP) Level 109CIEP Level 109 certification is recognised by many universities and
colleges, including career schools in the United States, in place of TOEFL /
IELTS. There are three stages here, namely the Elementary, Intermediate and
Advanced Stage.

Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) ProgrammeIf you are interested in pursuing language teaching as a profession, the
Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) programme is also
available at ELS Centres.

Communicative English Programme (CEP)This course is designed to enable participants to function more
professionally at work and more effectively in everyday situations through
improved language proficiency. The course reinforces participants' knowledge
of the forms and functions of the language in a communicative context.
Students are encouraged to participate actively in simulated learner-centred
activities facilitated by trained and professional instructors. This
programme is registered under the HRDC for the PROLUS scheme. Company
Contract Training is available for this course.

INTI International University CollegeEnglish Improvement Programme (EIP)
The INTI International University College offers an internal English course
known as the English Improvement Programme (EIP) which is conducted in one whole
full semester with approximately 30 study hours per week. This programme is
designed for non-native speaking students who wish to improve their English
language skills to prepare them for the regular academic programmes at the
undergraduate level in the INTI International University College.

KBU International CollegeThe Intensive English Programme (IEP)
This internal programme caters to all your needs (all four language skills) in
the English language. A multimedia English Language learning courseware, Planet
English, is used to complement classroom teaching. Students would need to take a
placement test to ascertain their level of proficiency. There are four levels,
namely Lower Basic, Higher Basic, Intermediate Basic and Advanced Basic in the
programme and each level can be completed in 12 weeks. This programme will
prepare students for IELTS and TOEFL.

Dip. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
This Diploma, awarded by the London Teacher Training College, UK specifically
targets trainees and those interested in teaching English as a second or foreign
language, combining academic study, teaching and classroom management. For
experienced teachers, it gives them the opportunity to enhance their teaching
skills and to obtain a recognised qualification for career advancement.

Cert. in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
This Certificate awarded by the London Teacher Training College, UK is intended
for trainees who wish to embark on a career in the teaching of English as a
Foreign Language. This is a programme of at least 30 hours of theory and
practice of contemporary English teaching.

KDU College
Certificate in Intensive English (CIE)This Certificate is ideal for students and working adults who want to
improve their English communication skills. It is especially tailored for
those who are planning to further their education in English. Communication
and interaction skills are enhanced with the help of Computer Assisted
Language Learning through the aclEnglish & Planet English language software.
The programme consists of 4 levels of study, namely Basic, Elementary,
Intermediate and Higher Intermediate. The duration of each level of the
Programme is 14 weeks of 20 hours per week.

Kuala Lumpur Infrastructure University College
Intensive English Programme (IEP)KLIUC offers an Intensive English Programme for high school leavers or
working adults. The intake for this programme is in February, June and
November. The programme provides necessary skills for students to achieve a
satisfactory proficiency level before gaining admission into institutions of
higher learning or for effectiveness at the workplace. It will develop the
students' vocabulary and language skills in listening, speaking, reading and
writing through a range of communicative activities and a skill-based
approach. Upon completion of this course, students are able to pursue any of
the diploma or foundation programmes at KLIUC.

Certificate in English Language (For Business)This 1 1/2 year programme is designed to upgrade the students' English
for professional contexts or to pursue a career in fields which require a
high Language Proficiency. This programme will enable students to
communicate appropriately and confidently in communicative tasks. To enroll
into this programme, students will need SPM / UEC / O-Level or equivalent
with a minimum of 2 credits which include English.
Diploma in English for Professional CommunicationThis 2-year programme is designed to provide a practical knowledge of
Business English which is needed for effective communication in the business
world. To enroll into this programme, students will need SPM / UEC / OLevel
or equivalent with a minimum of 3 credits which include English.

After completion of this Diploma, students may pursue a Bachelor's Degree in
relevant fields, i.e. English, Technical Writing, Corporate Communication,
Communication, Mass Communication, Business Administration, Public
Administration, and so on.

B.A (Hons) English for Professional CommunicationThis is a higher level of English programme which is designed to impart
the knowledge and skills necessary to function effectively in the national
and international business scenario or environment. They are also equipped
with basic business and entrepreneurship skills and business law to adapt to
the global market with the mastery of one other foreign language such as
French, German, or Mandarin. The duration of the programme is 3 years with 9
semesters.

Methodist College Kuala Lumpur
Certificate in EnglishThis certificate course is a Malaysian Quality Assurance Agency-approved
(LAN) course designed for those who need to attain a basic proficiency in
English to help them speak, read and write better English. A 15-month
course, it begins from the basic level to the intermediate level and
culminates in the attainment of a higher proficiency. It focuses on the
skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing but also includes modules
such as Introduction to Drama and Creative Writing.
Certificate in English for ExecutivesEnglish is the lingua franca of the world and in most countries it is
the language of communication in business. Fluency in English will increase
one's effectiveness in business negotiations. This 15-month LAN-approved
Certificate course is designed to help working executives acquire competency
in speaking, writing and negotiating in English.

Monash University Malaysia
English Language Bridging Program (ELBP)This is an intensive English language course for local Malaysian
students or International Students with conditional offers for the Monash
University. It was designed to give students, with a test score slightly
lower than the requirement to study at Monash University, an opportunity to
take up an academic orientation and bridging programme instead of spending
the time preparing for and sitting for another IELTS test. This programme is
open only to students with undergraduate conditional offers to faculties of
this university. Upon successful completion of the course, students can be
admitted into the university without having to sit for another IELTS test.

Nilai International College
Intensive English ProgrammeThis programme is a preparatory course designed for students to acquire
a satisfactory proficiency level in English before proceeding to Nilai's
foundation, certificate, diploma and degree programmes. The syllabus follows
a skill-based approach with emphasis on grammar and vocabulary development.
It covers in-depth Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking skills using
task-based activities in a language-enriched environment. Students are
required to take an Intensive English Programme Placement Test prior to
enrolment. The results of this test will determine the duration of the
course the students have to undertake.

Olympia College
ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Language)There are 4 levels in this preparatory course, namely Basic, Elementary,
Intermediate and Higher Intermediate. Students can also continue with the
Advanced level (optional) if they wish to. These programmes are offered to
students from all age groups and all levels of ability as they equip
students with listening, reading, speaking and writing as well as grammar
skills at the different levels respectively. As it is a UK-based award,
universities and professional bodies recognise Olympia's ESOL preparatory
course which also equips students for IELTS or TOEFL tests after they finish
the Higher Intermediate level.

S.I.T International College
Foundation in English CourseThis programme is specially designed to build the learners' skills,
confidence and fluency in listening, speaking, reading and writing for
university level study and enable them to successfully participate. It has 7
levels with 6 weeks of study per level.

Stamford College
Intensive English Programme (IEP)This course is designed to help students improve their proficiency in
English through interactive lectures and practical exercises. The programme
is offered at three levels, namely Intermediate, Upper Intermediate and
Advanced Level. Each level has a duration of 12 weeks with 16 hours per
week.

English Language Proficiency Course (ELPC)This course has been proven to be particularly beneficial for
International Students who come from non-Englishspeaking countries and for
Malaysian post-secondary students. It prepares these students sufficiently
for their entry into university and college courses. There are also 3 levels
here with each level consisting of 15 weeks of study.

Sunway University College
Intensive English Programme (IEP)A full-time intensive English proficiency and preparatory programme, the
IEP equips students to study courses in English at the college level. On
successfully acquiring the proficiency level, students can enroll in other
academic programmes. This programme has four instructional levels with 10
weeks of 200 hours per level. Students having achieved the highest level and
acquired the Band Achievement & Prerequisite Fulfillments, can enroll in the
Victoria University / Monash University Malaysia.

Swinburne University of Technology (Sarawak Campus)
Intensive English Proficiency CourseThis course is designed to fast-track students from their different
starting points to a functional level of academic English. The aim is to
help them make the transition from school to university studies
successfully.

At the end of the course, the students will have acquired the following:

Use of the international pronunciation alphabet for clear and correct
pronunciation

Sentence level grammar

A wider academic vocabulary

Better comprehension of academic text

Coherent writing of academic text

Confidence in speaking in English

Improved oral fluency and accuracy

Ability to understand spoken English

Taylor's University CollegeIntensive English CourseThis course is specially designed for students who need to enhance their
English before furthering their studies and fulfilling the foreign/local
university entry requirements. The duration of the programme will depend on
the English Proficiency Test score and your performance in class. Normally,
you should be able to complete Level 8 within a year. There will be 20 hours
of lessons per week with 4 hours daily. There are 8 levels for this course.

English Programme for Academic PurposesThis programme is aimed at improving the English language skills and the
academic study techniques of Taylor's students. The programme has three
levels - Intermediate, Upper Intermediate and Advanced. Each course is
adapted to meet the individual needs of the students. Students will then be
able to fulfil the English language requirement for entry into Taylor's
Hotel and Tourism Management Programmes, Law, Bio-Medical Studies,
Engineering, etc.

University College Sedaya InternationalB.A. (Hons.) English Language & CommunicationThis degree programme is designed to equip students who do not speak English
as a first language with excellent communication capabilities for
professional employment. Students who are learning English as a second or
additional (foreign) language will be able to develop graduate level
communicative competence, and to use English effectively in professional
thinking and decisionmaking. Practical applications are strongly featured in
this programme which links theory and practice through critical reflection.
Observation and work experience (via Co-Operative Placement), inquiry and
project activities are integral to the learning processes of the programme.
This is a 4-year programme with the first year being the Foundation level.

Certificate in EnglishThis course aims to develop students' communication competency in both oral
and written English. It includes a range of skills that matches the
students' needs and goals to achieve language proficiency to a
high-intermediate level. Here, students are also given a unique opportunity
to participate in a variety of outdoor and personal growth activities while
practising their newly-acquired English language skills. To obtain the
certificate, students must successfully complete Level 2 (Lower Intermediate
English) to Level 3 (Higher Intermediate English) as outlined in their
modules and the three compulsory Ministry of Higher Education modules –
Bahasa Kebangsaan, Malaysian Studies and Moral Studies / Islamic Studies.

Conclusion

Malaysia is the right country for the learning of the English
language. With international trading and globalisation, the English language
has played and will play an important role in everyone's life. Therefore,
the higher educational institutions in Malaysia have seen to it that various
levels are designed for English language programmes to accommodate the
different levels of proficiency of the individual students and to suit the
various needs of different students.